Dune: Kalutoqaniq

Abstract

The Dune is a hospital project located in Utqiagvik (Barrow), a remote and vulnerable region in the far northern Alaska, United States. Given the harsh weather and topography of the area, it is essential to respond through architecture that can improve the well-being of all users. With the ongoing changes in climate and lifestyle, people tend to spend most of their time indoors, making it critical to understand the relationship between indoor living and outdoor activities in this location. Site conditions, such as wind and permafrost, significantly impact people's lifestyles and the architecture of the region. Taking these factors into account, we designed Dune as a project that fulfills all the conditions while gathering information on the site and the existing programs of the adjacent hospital. Dune functions as both a hospital and a response to issues affecting the well-being of the community. The architecture of Dune respects the site conditions, including the flow of wind from outside that forms snow dunes and the flow within the community's building. Each functional zone in Dune is linked by a central nave, which helps the community navigate and avoid long, narrow corridors. The building's circular paths are designed to avoid a concentric layout, and public spaces are dispersed along the curve instead of concentrating on a single central space. The project aims to connect indoor and outdoor spaces to benefit staff, patients, and visitors. Every room now has access to open windows, and every open indoor space is well connected to others. Patient flow is distinct from public flow to create a sense of place and presence for everyone. Overall, Dune's design incorporates the necessary features to enhance the well-being of the community in Utqiagvik while respecting the site's conditions. The project strives to connect indoor and outdoor spaces while creating a sense of place and presence for all users.